Black-necked spitting cobra venom (Naja nigricollis venom) (N. nigricollis venom)

Naja nigricollis venom is a complex biochemical cocktail produced by the black-necked spitting cobra, primarily composed of cytotoxic three-finger toxins (3FTxs) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) enzymes [1]. Unlike many other cobras that rely heavily on neurotoxins, N. nigricollis venom is predominantly necrotoxic, causing severe local tissue destruction, inflammation, and hemolysis [2]. The venom is also unique for its spitting delivery mechanism, where it can be ejected into the eyes of a perceived threat, leading to intense pain and potential blindness [3]. In systemic envenomation, the toxins target cell membranes, leading to pore formation and cell death, which can result in extensive dermonecrosis and occasionally systemic effects like cardiovascular collapse [4]. Therapeutic intervention typically involves the administration of polyvalent antivenoms that contain antibodies designed to bind and neutralize these specific toxins [5]. Emerging small-molecule inhibitors, such as varespladib, are also being investigated for their ability to inhibit the enzymatic activity of the venom's PLA2 components [6].

Other names

Naja nigricollis venomBlack-necked cobra venomSpitting cobra venom

Neutralization of venom components by polyclonal antibodies (antivenom) or specific inhibition of enzymatic toxins like phospholipase A2 (varespladib) and metalloproteinases (prinomastat).